ROME (AFP) - Italy could exchange Islamic extremists held prisoner within the country for its three nationals who were kidnapped in Iraq (news - web sites), a relative of one of the hostages told Ansa Italian news agency.

"They assured me they (the hostages) were alive. This exchange is being negotiated", Angelo Stefio, the father of 34-year-old Salvatore Stefio, said.

Salvatore Stefio is among three Italian security guards being held in Iraq by a previously unknown group calling themselves the "Green Brigade".

A fourth Italian, Fabrizio Quattrocchi, was executed on Wednesday by the abductors, who have demanded the withdrawal of Italy's troops from Iraq and threatened to kill the other three men.

Rome - Italy could exchange Islamic extremists held prisoner within the country for its three nationals who were kidnapped in Iraq, a relative of one of the hostages told Ansa Italian news agency on Sunday.

"They assured me they (the hostages) were alive. This exchange is being negotiated," Angelo Stefio, the father of 34-year-old Salvatore Stefio, said.

Salvatore Stefio is among three Italian security guards being held in Iraq by a previously unknown group calling themselves the "Green Brigade".

Powered by DCForum+ Version 1.1 Copyright 1997-2002 DCScripts.com
Software has been extensively modified by the DU administrators

Important Notices: By participating on this discussion
board, visitors agree to abide by the rules outlined on our Rules
page. Messages posted on the Democratic Underground Discussion Forums are the
opinions of the individuals who post them, and do not necessarily represent
the opinions of Democratic Underground, LLC.